Unit Review: Endocrine System, Blood, Heart, Blood Vessels, Lymphatic System, Immune System, Respiratory System, Urinary System, Digestive System, Nutrition & Metabolism

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to the various systems of the human body as studied in the course, including the Endocrine System, Blood, Heart, Blood Vessels, Lymphatic System, Immune System, Respiratory System, Urinary System, Digestive System, and Nutrition & Metabolism.

Hormone

Chemical signal released into the blood by endocrine glands, travels through the bloodstream to target cells.

Endocrine Gland

Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Target Cell

A cell that has the correct receptor for a specific hormone.

Negative Feedback

A process in which a hormone shuts off its own production.

Trophic Hormones

Hormones that control other endocrine glands, such as TSH and ACTH.

Glucagon

Hormone released by the pancreas that raises blood glucose levels.

Insulin

Hormone released by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Epinephrine

Hormone produced by the adrenal medulla that triggers the fight-or-flight response.

Up-Regulation

An increase in the number of receptors for a hormone, making cells more sensitive to the hormone.

Down-Regulation

A decrease in the number of receptors for a hormone, making cells less sensitive to the hormone.

Phagocytosis

The process by which certain cells engulf and digest pathogens.

B cells

Lymphocytes that produce antibodies.

T cells

Lymphocytes that directly attack infected or cancerous cells.

Lymphatic System

System that maintains fluid balance, provides immune defense, and absorbs fats from the digestive system.

Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR)

The amount of filtrate formed per minute by the kidneys.

Respiratory Zone

The part of the respiratory system where gas exchange occurs, including the alveoli.

Alveoli

Tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs.

Acidosis

A condition in which the body fluids contain too much acid.

Alkalosis

A condition in which the body fluids have an excess of base.

Carbohydrate Metabolism

The process by which the body breaks down carbohydrates for energy.

Protein Metabolism

The process by which the body produces and uses proteins.

Lipolysis

The breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Leptin

A hormone that controls hunger.

Antigen

A foreign substance that triggers an immune response.

Antibody

A protein that binds to specific antigens to neutralize them.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels to increase blood flow.

Vasoconstriction

The narrowing of blood vessels to decrease blood flow.

Myocardium

The muscular layer of the heart responsible for contractions.

Thrombus

A blood clot that remains attached to a vessel wall.

Embolus

A blood clot that travels through the bloodstream.